The wood frog is distinguished from other species of frogs by a feature commonly referred to as its “robber mask” — a black band that stretches past both eyes to the eardrums. Reinforce this fun fact by having kids make robber masks to wear themselves. Cut strips from black stretch fabric, such as on old T-shirt. Draw and cut two circular holes out of the center of the strip, which will serve as eyes. Wrap the band around the head, and tie it in the back.
Wood frogs are recognized as harbingers of spring, as they are among the first species to reappear when the weather begins to warm. In the early days of spring, wood frogs are known to arrive at breeding ponds and initiate their mating call — a loud quacking call. For a fun project, have kids make a collage or painting that features the wood frog amidst the early blooms of spring. Drawing the frog surrounded by flowers will help kids remember the wood frog as a harbinger of the season.
Salamanders sacrifice their tails when in danger. If a salamander suspects its life is threatened by an enemy, it detaches its tail, which wriggles to distract the enemy as the salamander makes its escape. The salamander then grows a replacement tail. To reinforce this fact about salamanders, have kids make detachable tails to wear and remove. Color and cut a long and pointed greenish yellow tail from poster board. Punch a hole in the board at the top of the tail, and hook a lanyard hook in the hole. You can attach and remove the lanyard hook from the back belt loop of pants.
Most salamanders resemble lizards, having a long body, long tail and four legs. However the many diverse species of salamanders are identified by their defining physical characteristics. For instance, the mud puppy salamander is known for its especially chunky body and four toes on each foot. The spotted salamander is, of course, known for its spots. The hellbender is known for its broad and flat head, while the amphiuma looks more like a snake than a lizard, having a long, slinky body with tiny legs. The siren resembles an eel, having no hind legs. Invite kids to choose a species of salamander to draw or paint, based on knowledge and facts of the species’ characteristics. Then have all the kids share their artwork with each other to reinforce facts about different species.